**The ban aims to mitigate potential harm to children under 16 by limiting their access to influential platforms like YouTube, despite resistance from the tech giant.**
**Australia Expands Social Media Ban to Include YouTube for Under-16s**
**Australia Expands Social Media Ban to Include YouTube for Under-16s**
**The Australian government announces an extensive ban on social media platforms for minors, including YouTube, as part of a protective measure.**
In a groundbreaking move, Australia has decided to include YouTube in its social media restrictions aimed at protecting children under the age of 16. This follows the government’s earlier stance, which originally exempted YouTube from the ban. The initiative, slated to take effect in December, targets popular platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Snapchat.
Although teenagers will still be able to watch YouTube videos, they will be prohibited from creating accounts, which are necessary for uploading content and engaging in interactive features. YouTube, owned by Google, had contended that it should not be classified as a social media platform, emphasizing that it offers significant benefits to young Australians. Nevertheless, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the social harm caused by social media, assuring parents that the government stands firm in its commitment to protect children.
The global ripple effect of Australia’s decision is notable, with countries like Norway already announcing similar bans, and the UK exploring potential legislation. The move has been supported by Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, who noted that YouTube was frequently cited in connection to children aged 10 to 15 being exposed to harmful content.
In response to the ban, a YouTube spokesperson indicated that the company would “consider next steps” and continue discussions with the government. Reports have emerged suggesting Google may consider legal action if YouTube is penalized in this way, citing concerns about the implications for political freedom.
Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells emphasized the necessity of these measures, drawing an analogy about navigating the dangers of the internet. She stated that while there is a place for social media, it should not include "predatory algorithms targeting children." The ban includes exceptions for online gaming, messaging, educational, and health applications, minimizing their perceived risks to minors.
Tech companies that do not comply with the age restrictions could face fines up to A$50 million (about $32.5 million or £25.7 million). They are required to deactivate existing accounts, prevent new account creations, and fix any loopholes that may allow minors to bypass the restrictions. More details regarding the enforcement of this new ban are set to be discussed in federal parliament soon.
Although teenagers will still be able to watch YouTube videos, they will be prohibited from creating accounts, which are necessary for uploading content and engaging in interactive features. YouTube, owned by Google, had contended that it should not be classified as a social media platform, emphasizing that it offers significant benefits to young Australians. Nevertheless, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the social harm caused by social media, assuring parents that the government stands firm in its commitment to protect children.
The global ripple effect of Australia’s decision is notable, with countries like Norway already announcing similar bans, and the UK exploring potential legislation. The move has been supported by Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, who noted that YouTube was frequently cited in connection to children aged 10 to 15 being exposed to harmful content.
In response to the ban, a YouTube spokesperson indicated that the company would “consider next steps” and continue discussions with the government. Reports have emerged suggesting Google may consider legal action if YouTube is penalized in this way, citing concerns about the implications for political freedom.
Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells emphasized the necessity of these measures, drawing an analogy about navigating the dangers of the internet. She stated that while there is a place for social media, it should not include "predatory algorithms targeting children." The ban includes exceptions for online gaming, messaging, educational, and health applications, minimizing their perceived risks to minors.
Tech companies that do not comply with the age restrictions could face fines up to A$50 million (about $32.5 million or £25.7 million). They are required to deactivate existing accounts, prevent new account creations, and fix any loopholes that may allow minors to bypass the restrictions. More details regarding the enforcement of this new ban are set to be discussed in federal parliament soon.
